Celebrating the Breakthroughs Shaping the Future of Canine Health. Meet the 2025 Canine Health Discovery Award Finalists.

0002291: Molecular Genetic Causes for Canine Lens Luxation and Glaucoma

Heritable lens luxation, if not treated promptly, will induce secondary glaucoma. In addition, heritable primary glaucoma can cause secondary lens luxation. Since it is not always known whether lens luxation or glaucoma is the primary disease, we believe it is rational to study both diseases together. One or the other of these diseases is responsible […]

02057: Identification of the Genetic Cause of Corneal Ulcers

Spontaneous chronic corneal epithelial defects (SCCEDs) describe an eye disorder characterized by chronic corneal ulcers that fail to undergo normal healing. The predilection of certain breeds suggests that SCCEDs is inherited. Affected dogs develop spontaneous corneal ulcers that are often exceptionally painful and persist for weeks to months. Most dogs require surgical therapy to heal […]

02952: Genetics of X-linked Progressive Retinal Atrophy in Greyhounds

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a group of heritable retinal diseases characterized by retinal degeneration in both eyes which progresses to blindness and for which no treatment exists. Most forms of PRA occur via an autosomal recessive form of inheritance with only a few X-linked PRAs reported due to degeneration of areas of the retina […]

02948-A: Effect of Glycemic Control on the Onset of Cataract Development in Diabetic Dogs

Diabetes mellitus is a common endocrine disorder in dogs. Its most common long-term complication is cataract formation, occurring in about half of the dogs within six months of diagnosis. Diabetic cataracts typically develop quickly, causing blindness and requiring expensive surgery to restore vision. It is generally assumed that tight control of blood glucose levels delays […]

02061: Emergence of Pigmentary Uveitis as a Potential Cause of Cataracts and Glaucoma

Pigmentary uveitis affects 10% of senior Golden Retrievers and frequently results in blindness due to cataracts and/or glaucoma. The pain of glaucoma often leads to removal of the eye. Currently there is no way to prevent or effectively treat pigmentary uveitis. Evidence strongly suggests pigmentary uveitisis an inherited disease: it is observed exclusively in the […]

Genetics of X-linked Progressive Retinal Atrophy in Greyhounds

Background and purpose This trial is being conducted to better characterize retinal degeneration syndrome in greyhounds with hopes of identifying the genetic components of this disease. Participation requirements Any Greyhounds diagnosed with retinal degeneration and their relatives. American Kennel Club registered Greyhounds, both males or females. Benefits and risks of participating Your pet will benefit […]

Exploring Genetic Causes of Glaucoma in the American Cocker Spaniel

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve and ultimately result in irreversible vision loss. Primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG) is the most common form of glaucoma in dogs. It is caused by blockage of the ‘drain’ between the iris (the colored part of the eye) and cornea (the transparent surface […]